§ Baroness Wilcox asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ What plans they have for future assistance to the Commonwealth Institute.
§ Baroness Chalker of WallaseyWe value the work of the Commonwealth Institute and recognise the efforts it has made to modernise its operations, increase revenue and seek private sector investment. We are pleased to confirm that we have decided to give the Institute a grant-in-aid of £800,000 for the financial year 1997/98; and £600,000 for the year 1998/99. The question of funding beyond 1999 will be subject to normal public expenditure constraints and procedures. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office will continue to support the Institute's attempts to obtain further private sector investment.